When it comes to Romantic themed films, the majority usually fall into the genres’ well-worn themes. And it is exactly this type of predictability that often sinks these efforts. In the game of love there are no definite paths to a successful relationship and ultimately it is the unexpected nature that makes falling in love so compelling to live through or watch from afar.

When I was approached about the possibility of watching Seahorses I was hesitant at first since it is not the type of film that I usually write about. Needless to say even critics should venture beyond their areas of comfort since there is abundance of films that have yet to be discovered and disserve a wider audience.

The plot revolves around two characters; Martin’s life is at a crossroads after losing his girlfriend and the restaurant he owned with a friend. The other main player is a young woman named Lauren with a promiscuous past who is also having trouble with her siblings who wants their comatose mother removed from life support. They are two fractured souls whom fate has brought together.

Right from the get go their relationship is on treacherous ground as Lauren doesn’t trust Martin enough to come inside his home and relax. From there she slowly starts to unwind and then things take an unusual twist when she asks to freshen up in his bathroom. Oddly enough this is where things really start to gel and the moments were they are separated by a door are easily this film’s most durable. It is also during these moments that these two characters are at their most vulnerable. There is an honesty to their conversation that so many similar movies like to soft pedal subject matter instead of getting to the heart of said subject matter.

There are a few other minor players along the way. Their interaction with the two main characters lack the substance present in moments when they are alone. These secondary characters should be viewed more as means to further the evolution of the two main characters whose journeys ultimately intersect.

From a production stand point one would be hard pressed to find an area that is lacking or does not excel. The narrative is wonderfully paced as each new revelation unfolds effortlessly into the next. The film’s visuals are strong throughout, especially the use lighting to bathe the bathroom in blue. And when it comes to compositions every frame is used for maximum effect.

As good as the visuals are and as tightly constructed as the narrative is, all these things would not have the overall impact they do without strong performances from the films two leads. And in this regard both are definitely up for the challenge as they both give utterly convincing performances that deeply resonate long after the film’s finale. Overall, Seahorses is an extraordinary tale about life and loss that reminds us that love truly conquers all!

Want more information about this film? Please check out this film’s official website which can be found here.